Even with perfect protocol, users occasionally encounter problems with the Reloader Activator 13 RC 100. Here is a troubleshooting matrix.
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | No temperature rise during exotherm | Depleted reducing agent (old stock) | Verify batch code. Use fresh RC 100 (shelf life 14 months). | | White precipitate forms | Hard water contamination | Redilute with DI water; add 0.5 g/L EDTA. | | Foaming / overflow | Organic overload >5% | Add 10 ppm antifoam (silicone-free). Reduce agitation. | | Corrosion on 316SS vessel | Chloride contamination (>200 ppm) | Drain, passivate with nitric acid, rinse, restart with fresh batch. | | Incomplete activation (spotty results) | Dwell time too short or temp <55°C | Re-run cycle at 65°C for full 90 min. |
A midwestern automotive fastener plant was experiencing 12 hours of downtime every two weeks to manually scrub their electroless nickel plating tanks. They switched to the Reloader Activator 13 RC 100.
Before RC 100:
After RC 100 Implementation:
The plant manager noted: "The RC 100 doesn't just clean—it chemically resets the bath's energy state. We should have switched years ago."
After the cycle, cool to <40°C. Neutralize the spent activator with a weak acid (citric or acetic) to pH 6-8 before disposal per local regulations. The bath is now "reloaded" and ready for fresh chemistry. reloader activator 13 rc 100
Run the system pump at full recirculation. Allow the Activator 13 to dwell for 45 minutes. For heavily fouled systems (RC 100 High Fouling mode), extend dwell to 90 minutes.
The Plus variant contains a secondary biocide for systems prone to bacterial slime. Use standard RC 100 for chemical-only fouling.
Yes. A dark brown or black color indicates that heavy metal oxides are being successfully reduced and suspended. Final discharge should be dark but free of solids. A midwestern automotive fastener plant was experiencing 12
It’s not perfect. I have two gripes:
| Property | Value | | :--- | :--- | | pH (concentrate) | 13.0 – 13.5 | | Density (g/mL @ 20°C) | 1.21 ± 0.02 | | Viscosity | 2.8 cP (water-like) | | Operating Temp Range | 35°C – 85°C (95°F – 185°F) | | Compatibility | Stainless steel 316, PP, PVDF, EPDM |
Caution: The RC 100 is highly alkaline. Direct contact with aluminum, zinc, or brass will cause rapid corrosion and hydrogen gas evolution. After RC 100 Implementation: